Choose a Lenten practice that turns you toward God and makes more room for love of neighbor. Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving belong together.
Fasting and abstinence in the United States
For Latin Catholics in the U.S., Ash Wednesday and Good Friday are days of both fasting and abstinence from meat. The other Fridays of Lent are days of abstinence. Fasting binds those aged 18 through 59; abstinence binds from age 14. A fast permits one full meal and two smaller meals that together do not equal a full meal.
Eastern Catholics follow their own Church’s discipline. Illness and individual circumstances can affect obligations; ask your parish when unsure. Do not undertake a practice that endangers health. Read the USCCB’s guidance and linked questions about Lent.
Make a simple plan
- Prayer: reserve a few minutes for the Gospel, attend Mass when you can, or pray one decade of the Rosary thoughtfully.
- Fasting: let an appropriate sacrifice create attention and generosity, not a competition.
- Giving: choose a concrete person or organization to help, with money, time, or useful goods.
When a day goes badly
Return to the practice without making the failure the center of the season. Consider whether the plan was realistic and whether it is helping you love. A modest commitment carried faithfully can be more fruitful than an ambitious one abandoned in discouragement.
Pray the Passion; prepare for reconciliation
Use the Stations of the Cross and Sorrowful Mysteries. Set aside time to read the confession guide and check your parish’s schedule.
With children
Choose a family kindness jar: add a note after each act of service, then read the notes together at the end of the week. Children’s practices should suit their age and circumstances.
Discipline summary reviewed September 20, 2026; check current local guidance. Other practices are original suggestions.